LeBron James says he is not planning to go to Lakers

Oct. 19, 2012
|

LeBron James and Kobe Bryant have been teammates but that was the Olympics. James said the rumors of him going to the Lakers are not true. Besides, Bryant would probably be retired by then. / Kyle Terada, US Presswire

"I'm here, and this is what it's all about," James said. "I'm preparing for this season, preparing to defend our title and that's it. This is where ... I'm here now."

James has a contract that allows him to opt out after the 2013-2014 season or stay with the Heat for two more years.

"That story, I don't know where it came from, but I understand why it came up because of who I am -- it's going to happen," James said. "But I'm not going to worry about it. I've got to continue to stay focused with these guys and make sure we're ready for any challenges that come."